Dear Bristol Race Family:
Can you believe it’s nearly race time at Bristol Motor Speedway? I hope you’re as excited as I am about the 2013
NASCAR season – and I know you are because let’s face it; there’s absolutely nothing like kicking off the short track
season at BMS in March.
If you recall, Brad Keselowski, the 2012 Sprint Cup champion, paved the road to that title by winning his second straight
Cup race here last March, after getting his first BMS victory in August of 2011.
Keselowski loves racing here because it’s such a challenge and he feels at home; just like you guys like coming here
because you know there’s no other place like it and the atmosphere is second to none. You also know that you’re a very
important part of the Bristol family.
Once again, our March race weekend falls on St. Patrick’s Day, with the holiday actually on March 17, the day of the
Food City 500. Last year we had a big party, which everybody enjoyed, and we’re all set to do that again with a pretty
cool band playing the pre-race concert.
Just before the green flag flies on the Food City 500, the one and only Charlie Daniels Band will entertain everyone
with an infield concert. We’re really excited about having the legendary singer and songwriter at Bristol – and so is he.
Charlie’s a big race fan, and he can’t wait to enjoy his first race at the World’s Fastest Half-Mile.
We’ll also have a post-race party in our Guest Welcome Village on Saturday, March 16, just after the Nationwide Series/
K&N Pro Series doubleheader. It’s going to be a heck of a weekend.
And don’t forget Ford Fan Friday March 15, followed by Food City Race Night here at BMS in the hospitality area. Food
City Race Night is one of the largest fan events on the NASCAR circuit and if you haven’t been to one, you’re missing
out. It’s a great way to see drivers in a totally different atmosphere, playing games and answering your questions during
Q&A sessions. And, it’s free!
Honestly, the March race weekend just can’t get here soon enough for me. We’re looking forward to three great races
and a great St. Patrick’s Day celebration with Charlie Daniels! It just doesn’t get much better than that!
As always, I value your thoughts, ideas and opinions so I hope you’ll contact me at jerry@bristolmotorspeedway.com, or
any of our team members, including Ben Trout (ben@bristolmotorspeedway.com), who is our Vice President of Tickets
and Guest Relations should you have any feedback or questions.
The Guest Hotline also is available and if you have any questions, just call 866-925-9258 for assistance.
Have a great time while you’re here! And thank you for continuing to choose Bristol!
Sincerely,

Six Bristol locations.
All open until midnight!
www.FoodCity.com
@FCPowerShoppers
Like Us On Facebook
4

Winter 2012

Bristol Motor Speedway is a subsidiary of
Speedway
Motorsports,
LLC.
Speedway
Motorsports is a leading marketer and promoter
of motorsports entertainment in the United
States. The Company owns and operates the
following premiere speedways: Atlanta Motor
Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway, Charlotte
Motor Speedway, Kentucky Speedway, Las
Vegas Motor Speedway, New Hampshire Motor
Speedway, Sonoma Raceway, and Texas Motor
Speedway. The Company provides souvenir
merchandising services through its SMI Properties
subsidiary, and manufactures and distributes
smaller-scale, modified racing cars through its
600 Racing subsidiary. The Company also owns
Performance Racing Network (PRN), which
broadcasts syndicated motorsports programming
to more than 725 radio stations nationwide
including Sirius and NASCAR.com. For more
information, visit the Company’s website at www.
gospeedway.com.

By: Fred King
Can you believe that in a matter of weeks we’ll be getting down to
business again at Bristol? They say that as you get older, that time
really gets away from you, and I believe it. Boy, I’m old. It seems
like it’s been just a matter of days since Tony Stewart’s helmet was
flying toward Matt Kenseth’s windshield and Denny Hamlin was
crossing the finish line for his first win at Bristol, and now we’re in
the midst of sprucing up the facility for your annual spring break
party at Bristol.

Well, as you know by now my editor, Drew Bedard, just won’t let me
ramble on forever and I’m quickly approaching my allotted “word
count”, so it’s time to wrap this up with something really exciting…
two contests I’m promoting this season that I promise will make your
visit here next August your best ever Bristol night race experience.

Now that I’m back to writing about my favorite subject….. FOOD,
I thought I would let you know about some of the new places that
have sprung up in the area since I last did this restaurant review
gig in 2008. For those of you coming from big metropolises like
Chicago, Atlanta or Toledo, some of these names may be familiar,
and somewhat blasé, but when they arrived around here it was
pretty exciting. At least I was excited…but that just might be
because of my emotional attachment to food. I can still remember
how upset I became when I found out Weiner King went bankrupt.
All of these restaurants are personal favorites, all have opened
within the last year, and I have visited each of these at least once
in the last three weeks, so I’m pretty sure they are still in business.

First, for you campers out there that believe they just
can’t be topped around the grill (that’s pretty much all
of you, right), and who have developed a “world famous
insert name of dish”, here’s your chance to win access
for two to the IRWIN Tools Night Race Sprint Cup driver’s
meeting and two passes to the “Roof at Turn 4” located
on the media center in the infield of the World’s Fastest
Half Mile. That’s right, you are right there where the
action is during this year’s August night race…. a truly
once in a lifetime experience. What do you have to do
to win? Just mail me your recipe for that world famous
“whatever”, and if after trying it out myself, I decide it’s
the best of the bunch….you and your guest are right in
the middle of the action come August.

Since your nights are generally free, the spring race weekend is the
perfect time to leave the campground or hotel and visit our local
eateries. So, if you happen to crave some fresh seafood Saturday
night after the Nationwide Series race, you now have one of the
finest seafood restaurants in existence, Bonefish Grill, just down
the road on Roan Street in Johnson City. The “Bang Bang Shrimp”
is their top selling item, and my favorite appetizer of all time. In the
rare instances when I don’t fill up on multiple orders of the shrimp,
my next favorite dish is the fish tacos. You can make reservations,
and it’s probably best that you do since it is generally packed on
the weekends.
For those of you who enjoy the Mexican food group, I recommend
Poblanos, also in Johnson City. Poblanos is the only (as far as I
know) Mexican restaurant in the area that prepares their guacamole
fresh at your table. My wife and I make a night of it at Poblanos
starting off with chips and the guacamole, and then moving to
combination (chicken, steak and shrimp) quesadillas and Monster
Margaritas. Wow, I am about ready to faint. For those of you
looking for a healthier meal, Poblanos also serves chille rellenos,
which gives you the opportunity to please your Mom by eating your
greens while filling up on beef and cheese.
No three day (or for some of you seven day) period would be
complete without a big hangin’ pizza pie. Am I wrong? Well, the
area now has two locations (Johnson City and Bristol) of one of the
premier pizza eateries in the United States, Mellow Mushroom.
If you have never eaten at a MM then you need to hit one of their
locations while you are in the area. Besides interesting pizzas
named “Magical Mystery Tour”, “Kosmic Karma”, and “Holy
Shitake Pie”, they also offer terrific hoagies and tasty calzones…..
again, I’m getting a little woozy.

6

Spring 2013

CONTESTS
1

2

How To ENTER

Restaurant Review

Some New Restaurants Have Come to the Tri-Cities …

Second, it’s never too early to enter my ever popular,
annual “Heck yeah, I want to chow down with my hero,
Fred” contest. My wife and I want to take you and your
guest out to eat on Thursday night of the August 2013
Sprint Cup race weekend. We’ll pick you up in our very
large custom limousine and take you to Bristol’s finest
restaurant, The Troutdale Dining Room, for a dinner you
will never forget. You and your guest will both receive a
gift bag filled with over $250 dollars of BMS merchandise.
To top it off, I will give each of you a pit pass good for
entry to the garage area on Saturday afternoon, just prior
to the running of the IRWIN Tools Night Race at Bristol.

To enter, just e-mail (fred@bristolmotorspeedway.
com) or mail me your reason why you would like
to chow down with me next August. Include your
name, address and phone number for contact
purposes. Sometime around the first week in
August 2013, I will choose three names, and
those lucky fans (and their guest) will join me
for dinner on Thursday of the IRWIN Tools Night
race week. I’ll pick you up in the aforementioned
limo and take you to dinner at one of the area’s
finest restaurants. You’ll meet new friends, have
a great time, and will get that rare opportunity to
experience the race like you never have before,
access to the garage area the afternoon of the
August night race.

Chetola Resort
at Blowing Rock

Chetola Lodge :: The Bob Timberlake Inn
Spacious Condominiums

ORVIS FLY FISHING PACKAGES
HALF DAY AT THE REFUGE
Enjoy a half day of spectacular fly fishing on pristine, private waters with the highest water classification
in the state. Package includes overnight accommodations, professional fly fishing guide, equipment,
round trip transportation and refreshments. From $401 per person through April 25, 2013.

FLOAT TRIP PACKAGE
Fish for trophy trout while enjoying magnificent scenery on this six hour adventure. Package includes two nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accommodations,
equipment and instruction, lunch, refreshments, custom tied flies and round trip transportation to the Upper Watauga or Holston
River. From $349 per person through April 25, 2013 (minimum two person trip)

800-243-8652 :: www.chetola.com

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

7

Section Subhead
Section Title

Story Title

8

Spring 2013

Section Subhead

Section Title

Story Title

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

9

Dave Schaefer

IS T O L S E A

S
N

iBelong

BR

O

iBelong Member Profile

member Profile

TI

CK

E T H O L DE R

user submitted photo

iBelong Member: Dave Schaefer
Hometown: New Paris, Ohio
iBelong History: Season Ticket Holder since 1997, but has been attending Bristol
races for more than 20 years
Family: Wife Sue and four kids: Ronnie, Karen, Tina & Jackie

Q: Why is Bristol Special to you?

Q: Any other comments on Bristol?

A: Bristol is special to me because you can feel the excitement
inside your body with every lap. Some just watch it on TV, but
there is nothing like being there. Also Bristol is family. When you
visit Bristol Motor Speedway, it’s a homecoming. You get treated
better at Bristol than you will at any other track (or any other
supporting facility for that matter). I’ve been to Texas, Charlotte
and nine or ten other tracks. But Bristol exceeds anything I’ve
witnessed and I’ll keep going to Bristol as long as I can. It’s
more than just the racing… the people, the racing and the whole
experience sets it apart from any other venue.

A: Yes, for me I have to mention that Bristol is also patriotic. And
that’s important. Around 2008 I sent a letter to Jeff Byrd asking if
he would make sure that the PA announcer requested that fans
remove their hats and place their hand over their heart during our
National Anthem. Sure enough, it happened, and it’s been that
way ever since. In fact we’re seeing other tracks get on board
with that now.

Q: What is your most memorable Bristol Experience?
A: There are too many to single out just one. A few that stand out
include both races when Jeff Gordon bumped Rusty Wallace out
of the way (Spring ’95 and August ’02). And of course I was there
when Earnhardt “rattled the cage” of Terry Labonte in ’99. It was
crazy hearing so many fans boo Dale Earnhardt.

10

Spring 2013

But again, that’s what makes Bristol special. If you have a
request, just ask. If it’s doable, makes sense and is in the best
interest of the fans and the Speedway, Bristol will make it happen.
Again, that’s what separates Bristol from the rest of the pack.

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

11

2013 Season Schedule

Bristol Dragway

Experience The Thunder

Experience The THUNDER

Bristol Dragway ready for Pulse-Pounding Excitement in 2013

Solidifying its position as one of the
premier drag racing facilities in the world,
Bristol Dragway hosts a stellar slate of
events during the upcoming 2013 season,
including the flagship Ford NHRA Thunder
Valley Nationals.
Thrilling NHRA action roars in to Thunder
Valley June 14-16 for one of the signature
stops on the circuit for the kings and
queens of speed. The 13th Annual Ford
NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented
by the Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers is set for
Father’s Day weekend. The nitro-burning,
pulse-pounding excitement always makes
this one of the most popular events on the
tour among both drivers and fans.
An event unparalleled in drag racing, the
Ford Thunder Valley Nationals is a treat
for the senses. With thunderous engines,
extreme speeds and valley-shaking power,
every race fan should experience the
excitement of the NHRA at Bristol Dragway.
Local racer and 2012 Pro Stock champion
Allen Johnson hopes the trip to Bristol will
help him add the only thing missing on his
stellar resume, a win in Thunder Valley.
Antron Brown, 2012 Top Fuel champion,
and Jack Beckman, 2012 Funny Car
champion, also hope to end the day in the
Winner’s Circle by defeating tough fields of
competitors.
Lightning-quick action from some of the
fastest eighth-mile drag racers in the world,
happens during the Xtreme Drag Racing
League events at Bristol April 26-27. The
XDRL is the world’s premier sanctioning
body for the sport of eighth-mile drag
racing.
Bristol’s Street Fights series gives anyone
a chance to tackle the strip in legendary
Thunder Valley. All street-legal vehicles, from
muscle cars to minivans and motorcycles,

are welcome to compete at Street Fights.
The schedule is comprised of 14 Street
Fights events. The majority of events take
place on Thursday evenings, with select
Saturday races in 2013.

An event unparalleled
in drag racing, the Ford
Thunder Valley Nationals
is a treat for the senses.
With thunderous engines,
extreme speeds and valleyshaking power, every race
fan should experience the
excitement of the NHRA
at Bristol Dragway.

can expect radical racing, frantic freestyles
and mountains of mashed metal as some
of the nation’s biggest monster truck names
hit the track.
DER Bracket Racing Series hosts its fifth
season of popular grassroots racing in
2013. The DER Series schedule features
11 weekends of racing with competition in
categories ranging from Super Pro to Junior
Dragsters.

In addition to the DER Series schedule,
bracket racers have several chances to
score big this year. The May 16-19 K&N
Spring Fling 20’s presented by Sparco will
feature hundreds of drivers running all out
for big money. The BTE World Footbrake
Challenge VI takes place July 12-14 with
some of the biggest names in bracket
racing going head-to-head for $10,000-toThunder Valley gives fans of every win each day.
manufacturer the opportunity to see their
favorite classics in action. To give fans For fans who want to see the future of drag
and competitors added value, Fun Ford racing, one of the biggest weeks of Junior
Weekend and Mopar Thunder combine for Dragster competition in the world takes
a doubleheader event on Aug. 30-31. The place in July. It kicks off with the July 20new format features the same elements that 21 Huddleston Performance Jr. Dragster
made each event popular, but puts them Nationals presented by Mike Bos. The
together to give fans even more bang for twelfth annual event is the perfect tuneup for racers in the July 22-27 NHRA Jr.
their buck.
Drag Racing League Eastern Conference
Home to some of the largest Super Chevy Finals presented by Viperizer. The Eastern
Show crowds, Bristol Dragway prepares Conference Finals attracts more than 500
for a flood of bowtie fans Sept. 27-29. racers, ages 8-17, from all states east of the
After racing concludes at the Super Chevy Mississippi River.
Show on Saturday, Sept. 28, a spectacular
lineup of extreme machines will put on an In 2013, a diverse range of events return
edge-of-the-seat thrill show during Beef O’ to Bristol Dragway, home to one of the
Brady’s Thunder Valley Mayhem presented most varied dragway schedules on the
planet. Dragway officials still are working
by Thompson Metal Services.
on several new events for the 2013 season,
Car-crushing chaos comes to the infield with details for those events released once
of Bristol Motor Speedway for Thompson they are finalized. For racers and fans alike,
Metal Monster Truck Madness presented Thunder Valley is the perfect playground for
by Beef O’ Brady’s Saturday, July 20. Fans the upcoming season.

The Oshkosh families of Fire & Emergency and Access vehicles
are proud to set the pace in performance and response. With
every turn, we are there. And in every circle we run, we lead.
That’s the power of Oshkosh.

Three Bedroom Condo
UNDER $190
Holiday Inn Express
2002 Temple Hill Road
Erwin, TN
$219 available by calling the property
direct toll free at 800-304-7958. Will
match all published Internet rates at the
property direct. Ask about the shuttle!

For an updated list, visit:
www.bristolmotorspeedway.com

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

17

2013 Gen-6 Cars

Putting the ‘Stock’ Back in Stack Car

The Sixth Generation of
Stock Cars Has Arrived
Greater manufacturer identification, new unique styling
cues and a return to more aggressive racing are what
NASCAR hints as the end result for what they are calling
the “Generation 6” stock car.
By Wes Ramey
When the Sprint Cup Series competitors take
to the track for the March 17 Food City 500,
their chariots will take on a whole new look.
A look that fans, drivers, teams and NASCAR
have eagerly awaited.

To separate the new car from its predecessor,
fans will not have to look hard. While the
previous generation cars featured similar
bodywork, with only decals to distinguish
the different makes, the new cars have
manufacturer-unique body panels to make
Greater manufacturer identification, new the cars look more like their street-going
unique styling cues and a return to more counterparts.
aggressive racing are what NASCAR hints
as the end result for what they are calling the In addition to the new sheetmetal, several
“Generation 6” stock car.
design characteristics have made it in to the
cars’ unique paint schemes.
Obviously, the number one goal in motorsports
is to constantly find a way to go faster. First, fans can easily identify drivers thanks
Through this progression, cars have evolved to each competitor’s name written across
from the everyday grocery getter to specially the top of the windshield. Additionally,
engineered and meticulously designed speed sponsor decals are no longer permitted
machines. In the early days of NASCAR, cars on the headlights and taillights, two areas
like the Ford Galaxie, the “Fabulous” Hudson manufacturers asked to keep free of decal
Hornet, and even convertibles, were driven clutter because these spots set each marque
to the track, entered in the event, and driven apart from its rivals.
home…if the owner was lucky.
Car numbers, which historically have been
From there, the focus on safety, and one- on the headlights and taillights, will be
upmanship, saw the NASCAR stock car moved lower to the front and rear bumpers.
transform into a purpose-built machine A single sponsor logo will be permitted on
with roll cages and chassis built by greats the roof, running along the top edge of the
like Holman-Moody, Banjo Matthews and rear window. Sponsor decals located on the
Hutcheson-Pagan. Ford Torinos, Dodge rear quarter-panels will now extend past the
Daytonas and Dodge Chargers ruled in this front edge of the b-post, the middle section
time of aerodynamics and sheer muscle. of sheetmetal which runs from the car’s side
NASCAR stock cars downsized in 1981, to its roof.
going to a 110” wheelbase, to more closely
resemble what was happening in dealership Due to the more aggressive and contoured
showrooms. The cars continuously morphed nature of the new car, less room is available
until 2007, when NASCAR introduced the Car on the body for artwork. For this reason, the
of Tomorrow here at Bristol Motor Speedway car number size is reduced by 10%, while the
area for contingency decals is reduced to 26
on March 25.
square inches.
Opinions varied on the CoT, and NASCAR
officials began looking for ways to change NASCAR’s next generation begins now.
the car. For 2013, NASCAR and the Fans should visit Bristol Motor Speedway in
manufacturers have worked together to March to see the excitement of the newlycreate the new Sprint Cup Series stock car, redesigned cars when they hit the high banks
a car that everyone agrees should enhance of the “World’s Fastest Half-Mile.”
competition and add excitement to the
season. The new car, after extensive testing,
makes its much-anticipated debut at Bristol
during the Food City 500.

Poster
>>Tear
>>>>>>>>>>Out
>>>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>>>>>>

18

Spring 2013

EVOLUTION OF STOCK CAR STYLES
The development and design of the latest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars
continues a robust tradition of styling that dates back to the earliest days
of our sport. Here’s a quick-hit look at how stock cars have changed through
the years, including some important transitional makes and models.

• Manufacturer-unique body panels placed on existing chassis
• Enhanced body designs better resemble the cars found
in showrooms across the United States
• Design puts the “stock” back into stock car racing

GENERATION 5: 2007-2012

2012 CHEVROLET IMPALA
The end of Generation 5 also marked
the end of this model in NASCAR.

EVOLUTION OF STOCK CAR STYLES
The development and design of the latest NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars
continues a robust tradition of styling that dates back to the earliest days
of our sport. Here’s a quick-hit look at how stock cars have changed through
the years, including some important transitional makes and models.

Free, Event Returns to BMS Hospitality March 15, 2013
“I’ve taken down all challengers and there’s been some
pretty good competition; Clint Bowyer, Jimmie Johnson, Brad
Keselowski, lots of ‘em… they’ve all tried to take the title away
but nobody’s been able to beat me.” ~ Sadler
Food City Race Night at Bristol Motor
Speedway is one of the most popular
off-track events in the entire sport of
NASCAR and fans once again will have the
opportunity to enjoy it March 15 in the BMS
Hospitality area.

“I’m feeling pretty good about my Drive
for Five on March 15. The funny thing is I
hear about all of these guys practicing….
training. I just show up and keep taking
home the belt.”
Sadler says Food City Race Night is a
must-see event for fans.

Numerous Sprint Cup and Nationwide
Series drivers take to the stage in the
hospitality area and take part in a variety
of activities, which in the past has included
Wii Boxing, Family Feud, Guitar Hero and
He Said, He Said to name a few.

“It’s a great fan event… one of the best
ones all year,” he said. “It’s right there at
the track and it’s free. The fans really get
into it and they get to see the drivers in a
completely different environment. And it’s
great for us too because we get to blow
Elliott Sadler has been untouchable in Wii off a little steam before the races and have
Boxing, having won the championship some fun. I always look forward to it.”
belt every year Food City Race Night has
taken place at Bristol. He’ll return to defend Food City Race Night is free to race fans
his title again in 2013 with a number of and is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. and
conclude at 9 p.m., although the game
challengers looking to dethrone him.
portion of the event will take place between
“I don’t want to brag but… they’ve had this 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
event the last four years and I’ve won it
every single year,” said Sadler. “I’ve taken Food City Race Night also will feature
down all challengers and there’s been some plenty of live music, car simulators, free
pretty good competition; Clint Bowyer, food sampling and a variety of other events,
Jimmie Johnson, Brad Keselowski, lots of as well as autograph sessions with various
‘em… they’ve all tried to take the title away Nationwide and Cup drivers.
but nobody’s been able to beat me.”

For additional information, visit: www.foodcity.com/community/racing

24

Spring 2013

Race Night 2013

Food City

March 15, 2013

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

25

2013 Food City 500

Brad Keseloski

Can Brad Take Thrid Cup Win at Bristol?

Can Brad Keselowski Grab Third Bristol
Cup Win On March Race Weekend?
Food City 500 Kicks Off Another Big Year At BMS

By: Lori Worley
Brad Keselowski has always had a special affinity for Bristol Motor
Speedway -- even before he conquered the World’s Fastest Half-Mile.
That tends to happen to NASCAR drivers who grow up visualizing
themselves taming what is one of the most physically and mentally
demanding tracks on the circuit with the end result a trip to the BMS
victory lane.
They view the half-mile concrete monster as a Bucket List type
of track. If they can win at Bristol, they know they’ve really done
something special. They know they didn’t luck into the victory, and

26

Spring 2013

“When I won my first race here (Nationwide
Series) in 2008, I felt like I had really done
something,” said Keselowski. “Winning at
Bristol puts you in a special place. It’s not an
easy place to race so when you do win here
you know you’ve really done something.”
After that August event, Keselowski was so
in awe of the moment that he refused to let
his winner’s trophy out of his sight, carrying
it with him from victory lane to his post-race
press conference.

Keselowski will have his chance to get off
to the same kind of championship start on
March 17 as he goes for back-to-back wins
in the Food City 500.
As usual, the first short track race of the
season will be long on fun and entertainment
and with St. Patrick’s Day falling on Cup
race day, there’s even more to be excited
about.

‘ Winning at Bristol puts
you in a special place. It’s
not an easy place to race
so when you do win here
you know you’ve really done
something. ’

Fast-forward several years and Keselowski
had one-upped himself at BMS, capturing
the 2011 IRWIN Tools Night Race. The weekend kicks off March 15 with
Afterward, he was overjoyed.
Sharpie qualifying and then heats up
Saturday, March 16 with a doubleheader
“Wow -- the night race at Bristol!” he said. that features the 300-lap Nationwide Series
“I used to watch Tony Stewart and Jeff race and the K&N Pro Series 125. As part
Gordon and Dale Earnhardt win this race. of the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, a
This is a race of champions. I can’t believe post-race party, with live music and plenty
it. There’s races that pay more, but this is of other activities, will take place in the
the coolest one of them all.”
hospitality area.
And then he returned last March to find
himself sitting in the exact same spot – in
victory lane – after the Food City 500.
“What can I say? I love Bristol and Bristol
loves me,” said Keselowski. “The goal
at Penske Racing is to win a Sprint Cup
championship, and one win certainly
doesn’t achieve that, but it’s a great step.”
And then he went right out and won the
2012 Sprint Cup championship.

Practice and qualifying highlight a jampacked Ford Fan Friday on March 15.
Qualifying for the Food City 500 takes place,
along with practice for both the Nationwide
and K&N races.
Also on tap Friday evening is one of the
largest fan events in the sport, Food City
Race Night, which takes place in the
hospitality area at BMS.
The Charlie Daniels Band highlights
Sunday’s St. Patrick’s Day party with a prerace concert taking place on-track in the
BMS infield.
NASCAR’s second visit to BMS is
highlighted by the IRWIN Tools Night Race
Aug. 24, which caps a big week of night
racing that begins on Wednesday with a
doubleheader.
The UNOH 200 Camping World Truck
Series, which has always offered up some
of the biggest thrills of the weekend, takes
place Wednesday, Aug. 21, along with the
Whelen Modified race.

Thursday night all is quiet on the track but
there’s plenty going on outside the track,
including the Ford/BMS Transporter Parade
The K&N Series has developed a number and Food City Race Night in downtown
of Sprint Cup drivers and crew chiefs, Bristol.
including Joey Logano, Ricky Craven,
Steve Park, Greg Zipadelli, Richard Friday night the Nationwide Series’
“Slugger” Labbe and Frankie Stoddard. brightest stars will do battle in the Food City
250, followed by NASCAR’s most popular
And the great news about Saturday’s races race on Saturday night, the IRWIN Tools
is fans get twice the action for the price of Night Race.
one ticket. Starting at just $45, fans can
take in both the Nationwide Series event Tickets are available to all events and may
and the K&N race.
be purchased by calling 1-855-773-5324
toll free or by visiting www.bristoltix.com.

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

27

2013 Food City 500

they know success only comes at Bristol by
using their heads, being tough and by being
able to withstand the mental challenges of
such close quarters racing with 42 other
drivers on such a small piece of real estate.

Brad Keselowski

Can Brad Take Third Cup WIn at Bristol?

Tennessee

Destinations

A Premiere Travel Destination

28

Spring 2013

A Premiere Travel Destination
Destinations

Tennessee:
A Premiere Travel Destination
For race fans traveling to Tennessee to experience NASCAR’s fastest half-mile
track at Bristol Motor Speedway, there are adventures around every turn, and
throughout the entire state.

Tennessee

The lush landscape, musical heritage and unique history of Tennessee bring
millions of visitors to our state each year. With Tennessee’s scenic beauty,
mild climate, Southern hospitality and diverse entertainment options, there’s
something for every taste.

The Great Outdoors
For the outdoor lover, Tennessee holds numerous treasures in its breathtaking wilderness
areas. Explore cliffs and canyons, green forests and dramatic gorges, serene lakes and
rushing waterfalls, rolling hills and peaceful pastures. From the mighty Mississippi River
and the eerie landscape of Reelfoot Lake, across the Cumberland Plateau to the Smoky
Mountains and the scenic grandeur of the Northeast region of the state, the beauty of
Tennessee calls out to the need for adventure. Ride the whitewater rapids of the Ocoee,
Nolichucky and Hiwassee Rivers, ski the slopes of Ober Gatlinburg, float through the
Tennessee River Gorge.
Best Bets
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: The Big South Fork of the Cumberland
River passes through 90 miles of scenic gorges and valleys with a wide range of natural and
historic features and recreational options.
Don’t Miss
Watauga Lake: Surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest and flanked by the
Appalachian Mountains, Watauga is arguably the most scenic in the Tennessee River
watershed and offers access to the Appalachian Trail.

Tennessee Trails
If Tennessee’s big cities take center stage on your vacation, consider a trip along the back
roads for off-the-beaten-path discoveries. With the Discover Tennessee Trails & Byways
program, you can visit local gems such as wineries, historic main streets, quaint restaurants,
scenic spots for outdoor adventure and much more.
Sixteen regional trails and byways with names like “Rocky Top “ and “Sunny Side” originate
in or run through your favorite Tennessee destinations such as Memphis, Nashville,
Knoxville, Chattanooga and the Great Smoky Mountains. Among the highlights of the
Sunny Side Trail, traversing Northeast Tennessee is Bristol Motor Speedway, President
Andrew Johnson’s home in Greeneville and Jonesborough, Tennessee’s oldest incorporated
town.
Tennessee’s Civil War history offers another opportunity to see the state from a unique
historic perspective. Tennessee is the only Civil War National Heritage Area to encompass
an entire state.

Music that Moves Us
Music lovers come to West Tennessee to pay tribute to Elvis, B.B.
and Tina and travel to Nashville for live broadcasts at the Grand
Ole Opry. In Bristol, learn some history at the Birthplace of Country
Music Alliance Museum.
Best Bets
Birthplace of Country Music Alliance Museum in Bristol: Exhibits and
artifacts on traditional Appalachian music and performers from the
region. Live music is every Thursday evening.

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

29

Destinations

A Premiere Travel Destination

Explore Tennessee’s Three Grand Regions
MIDDLE
Crossing over the Tennessee River into Middle Tennessee, the landscape
changes: more hills, more valleys, but still plenty of wide-open spaces.

WEST

Tennessee

The Mississippi River is a mesmerizing,
constant reminder that Memphis never
stops moving. From the colorful history
of the cotton trade to the “Home of the
Blues” and the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’
Roll,” Memphis moves to its own beat,
offering experiences as diverse as its
attractions. The Cotton Museum, Beale
Street, the growing Memphis Zoo and the
Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum are full of music,
history and great family fun.
Don’t Miss
Shiloh National Military Battlefield: The
haunting – and huge – Shiloh tells the story
of one of the Civil War’s most decisive and
deadly battles.

But there’s much more to Nashville than music: Andrew Jackson’s ancestral
home, The Hermitage, the European-style Schermerhorn Symphony Center,
and an always-changing exhibit of masterpieces at the Frist Center for the
Visual Arts.
Follow the beat any direction from Nashville, and you’ll find surprises.
Franklin’s bustling small-town feel is juxtaposed with its celeb-sightings,
boutique shopping and rich Civil War history. Stones River Battlefield in
Murfreesboro and Clarksville’s Fort Defiance showcases important Civil War
battles fought hard in Tennessee.
Don’t Miss
Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art: The historic Cheek estate
has a botanical garden named in the “Top Five” by Southern Living magazine,
and year-round family-friendly activities.
Off the Beaten Path
Roy Bailey African-American Museum & History Center, Lebanon: Artifacts
and stories tell about the lives of African-Americans in Wilson County in this
excellent museum and research center.

EAST
Across East Tennessee, the beat is a
comfortable blend of old and new. The
Great Smoky Mountains are full of wonder.
Enjoy the simplicity of standing waist-deep
in the Green or Little Pigeon rivers, giving
in to the hypnotic sway of a rod casting
into clear waters. Make a pilgrimage to
Cades Cove: discover waterfalls, catch a
glimpse of a black bear, hear the soothing
sounds of silence. Adventure waits around
every bend of “America’s Most Visited
National Park.”

Knoxville’s beat is powered by the
University of Tennessee and Market
Square’s restaurants, live entertainment
and popular farmer’s market. The Women’s
Basketball Hall of Fame is here.

Going from the park into the town of
Gatlinburg is like throwing a switch. One
minute you’re in lush forests, the next
you’re surrounded by restaurants, shops
and attractions. Pigeon Forge has largerthan-life family attractions and the delights
of Dollywood. Head into Sevierville, Ms.
Parton’s hometown, for incomparable
shopping and a giant indoor waterpark at
Wilderness at the Smokies.

The Tri-Cities of Johnson City, Kingsport
and Bristol buzz with high-speed racing
at Bristol Motor Speedway, outdoor
adventure and history, including the
Gray Fossil Site and Museum, where
paleontologists search for clues to
Tennessee’s ancient beats.

30

Spring 2013

This riverfront city of Chattanooga
surprises with its breadth of offerings, from
the fantastic Tennessee Aquarium and the
Hunter Museum of American Art to some
of America’s most iconic attractions, Rock
City and Ruby Falls.

Don’t Miss
Cherokee Heritage: The former seat of
Cherokee power, Red Clay State Park in
Cleveland offers a comprehensive history
of the tribe in Tennessee. Keep on the Trail
of Tears with a stop at The Passage in
Chattanooga.
Off the Beaten Path
Davy Crockett Birthplace: This riverside
park and birthplace of the legendary
frontiersman includes a museum and
replica of the cabin where Crockett was
born in Northeast Tennessee.
Tennessee has what you are looking for.
No matter your interests, “In Tennessee,
We’re Playing Your Song.”

For more information, visit

www.tnvacation.com

St. Patty’s Day

Éire Go Bristol

Éire Go Bristol

2013 Food City 500

Plenty of Music, Featuring The Charlie Daniels Band,
Highlight St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

By: Lori Worley
Any time there’s a NASCAR race weekend at Bristol Motor
Speedway, it’s going to be a party. In March, it just so happens that
while race fans are celebrating the first short track Sprint Cup race
of the season with the Food City 500 March 17, they also have St.
Patrick’s Day festivities in which to revel.

But the party begins on Saturday with Nationwide and K&N Series
events, which will be followed by a post-race party in the BMS
Guest Welcome Village (located near the Orange Bridge between
the Speedway and Dragway) that will feature live music, plenty of
games, activities and loads of fun.

While St. Patrick’s Day coincides with the running of the The first 1,000 fans who purchase a Pre-Race SuperPass for the
Food City 500 on Sunday, the celebration will encompass Food City 500 on St. Patrick’s Day will receive access to the track
the entire weekend at the World’s Fastest Half-Mile. for a track tour prior to the Charlie Daniels Band concert, which
takes place on the backstretch. Also, they will be able to stay on
The Charlie Daniels Band is the featured musical event of the the track for driver introductions.
weekend with the legendary singer/songwriter and his band taking
to the stage in the BMS infield just prior to the drop of the green Entry for the post-race party on Saturday is free.
flag for the Food City 500.

Meet the Ticket Office Staff
Just some of the friendly faces on the other side of the phone.
By: Landon Owen
Greetings from your BMS Ticket Office! I say your ticket office
because we are truly here for you every single day of the year.
Not only are we available to field questions or help you find your
dream seats inside the World’s Last Great Colosseum, but you may
have noticed over the past year that we may have reached out
to you on occasion to gain some feedback, let you know about
a cool new promotion, or even just to say thank you! That’s all
part of our new outreach initiative designed solely around the
purpose of making that legendary Bristol experience even better.

during a race weekend, but it will be nice to put a face with
the names that some of you have been working with for years!

My name is Landon Owen and I came here about a year ago to
head up our new outreach team. I figured it was time to introduce
myself – along with some of our great team members – to you
the race fans! I enjoy getting to know our fans on a personal
level and would love for you to do the same with our team.
Please take a moment to read about some of our talented team
members. We don’t get to visit with folks as much as we’d like

We want everyone to feel that way, so if there is something we can
do to make your Bristol experience better, I’d like to know about it.
Give me a call anytime! My direct line is 423-989-6403. My email is
lowen@bristolmotorspeedway.com. I look forward to hearing from
and working for you both now and down the road!

On a personal note, the best thing about my job is that I get to
talk to our Bristol Family members on a daily basis. You are the
reason we come to work each morning. Our goal is to have the
best customer service staff not just in this business, but in any
business! Nothing makes us happier when we hear about a fan
that had the time of their lives at Bristol. We share that joy with you!

Becky Fulwider

Kathy Artrip

Hi, my name is Becky Fulwider. If you
have called the ticket office in the last 16
years you have probably talked with me at
least once. I started working in the ticket
office in 1986. One of my responsibilities
is helping customers with any handicap
needs. I live in Bristol with my husband
Steve and we have been together for
41 years. I have three wonderful young
adults. When I started working at BMS
I knew nothing of the sport except that
the cars went around in a circle. I have
come to love racing and definitely love
our track. We are a family here and I am
so glad to be part of it. I have also come
to love all the fans and hope that I have a
lot more years here at BMS.

I’m Kathy Artrip and I have been with
Bristol Motor Speedway/Dragway since
July 2004. I started out in the Speedway
World Souvenir Store, where I worked for
a little over a year before transferring to
the Ticketing Department. I live in Bluff
City, Tennessee, with my boyfriend and
two children. Racing has always been
a big part of my life, which naturally led
me to my career here at the Speedway.
On the weekends, I drag race my 1994
Mustang at Bristol Dragway with my
family. I am currently enrolled at King
College in Bristol, Tennessee, where I am
pursuing my Associates Degree.

32

Spring 2013

I enjoy my job here at Bristol, because
of the relationships that are formed with
my customers. I have worked with a
lot of people over the years, and it’s like
they have become family. I work with a
great group of people that make things
interesting and make me look forward to
coming to work here every day.

My name is Lyndsay Crabtree. I was born
in Knoxville, Tennessee, but have lived in
Johnson City for the majority of my life. I
attended East Tennessee State University
where I obtained a Bachelor of Business
Administration in Marketing Management
as well as my Master of Arts in Sport
Management. I cheered during my four
years as an undergraduate at ETSU.
Cheerleading and gymnastics have been
a passionate part of my life. Beginning
at the age of five, I have participated in
gymnastics, school cheerleading, as well
as a National Championship competitive
cheerleading team. I am an avid sports
fan and enjoy staying active.
I began working at Bristol Motor
Speedway in July 2012. Working at
BMS for this short period of time has
been amazing. My co-workers are truly
a great group of people who have made
my experience worthwhile. Being able to
help people gain memorable experiences
here at Bristol makes this job fulfilling.

It has always been my dream to work in motorsports, and I am blessed to be at Bristol
Motor Speedway. I love the experience of talking with fans from all over the world. It is
a joy to hear how much people love Bristol, and I’m so proud to be a part of it. Bristol
truly has the best fans in racing!

Clarissa Whitaker

Hi! My name is Clarissa Whitaker and I
have worked both NASCAR and NHRA
events in ticket sales since March 2005.
In December 2009, I began working
regularly in the ticket office. I am from
nearby Blountville, Tennessee. I have
always loved sports, both participating
and observing, which is one reason I
enjoy working at BMS. I love to travel with
my boyfriend (who currently serves in the
military) and crafting almost anything. I
graduated from East Tennessee State
University with a degree in Psychology.
I love working at BMS because the fans
are the best! I enjoy answering the emails
sent to the ticket office and really getting
to know the fans. All of the fans and my
co-workers make this such an enjoyable
job to have, and I feel very blessed to
have the opportunity to work in such a
great place with such great people.

Walt Clark

I’m Christy Bunn. I have been part of the
BMS ticket department since January
2007 as a customer service and ticket
sales representative. I was born in
Bristol, Tennessee, and continue to live
in Bristol with my wonderful husband
Eric, beautiful daughter Addison and
our three dogs. I am also active in
my church, where I am the Children’s
director and a Sunday school teacher. In
my free time, I love playing and watching
sports, being outdoors and doing crafts
during the winter. I love working at Bristol
Motor Speedway for many reasons, but
the number one reason is the fans. We
have the best fans in the business and
getting to talk to them and hearing their
excitement is just an AWESOME feeling.
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your
heart, as working for the Lord, not for
men.” -Colossians 3:23.
At Bristol Motor Speedway, it’s so easy to
give your all because it isn’t just a place
to work, it’s a family.

My name is Walt Clark and I have been
a senior ticket sales executive at BMS
since October of 2012. This is my second
stint at Bristol. Prior to spending the last
two years in Nashville working in Minor
League Baseball, I had spent nearly an
additional two years as an employee
in the BMS ticket department. Having
grown up in Kingsport, Tennessee, I have
always had a great appreciation for the
tradition of Bristol and the excitement it
holds. I received my sport management
degree from the University of Tennessee
in 2009 and have been working in
ticket sales since graduation. I have
one younger brother who is also a UT
graduate and currently works in their
athletic ticket office. Outside of the office
I can be found playing golf or taking
off to Atlanta to catch as many Braves
games as possible during the summer.
The best part about working at Bristol
Motor Speedway is interacting with our
fans that – in my experience – are the
most passionate bunch of people I have
ever worked with.

See our next issue for more team members from our ticket office
Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

33

Ticket Office

My name is Brandie Maness and I first came to Bristol as an event worker in 2011. I
joined the ticket department in May 2012 after having been an elementary teacher for
seven years. A native of the Bristol area and a life-long NASCAR fan, I attended my
first race at Bristol before I was even born! I received my Bachelor’s Degree from the
University of Tennessee (Go Vols!) and a Master’s Degree from ETSU. Other than racing,
I enjoy attending concerts, baseball and football games, being outdoors, and aviation.
Bristol is still home for me, my husband and our four beloved dachshunds.

Staff Profile

Friendly Faces On The Other Side Of The Phone

2013 Food City 500

Children’s Charities

March 2013 Events

March Events
Please help us support Speedway Children’s Charities

Richard Petty Driving Experience Ride-Alongs
Here’s your chance to ride around the World’s Fastest Half-Mile
nearly as fast as the professionals as Speedway Children’s Charities
and Richard Petty Driving Experience have partnered once again
to bring you the Ride-Along program. The Richard Petty Driving
Experience Ride-Alongs will be available Friday, March 15, 2013
from 8 – 11 p.m. Participants will be outfitted in a fire suit before
taking to the track where they’ll get to ride around NASCAR’s most
popular track for three laps.
Cost of the rides is $149 per person. In the event of inclement
weather, participants will be given a credit that may be used at any
Richard Petty Driving Experience event for up to one year.
Anyone interested in taking part in the Ride-Alongs, should
pre-register at 1-800-BE-PETTY or at www.1800bepetty.com.
Participants must be 14 years of age or stand at least four feet tall
and weigh 80 pounds. There are a limited number of rides available
so anyone interested in participating should register promptly.
Cornhole Classic

Track Tours

The annual Cornhole Classic takes place March 15-17, 2013. Cost
is $40 to enter per team. Each player will receive a commemorative
t-shirt. Prizes will be awarded for top qualifying teams and the
Grand Championship winners will win $500, suite seats to the
Irwin Tools Night Race and Food City 250 Aug. 23-24, along with
a camping spot. The runner-up wins $200 and suite seats to
the 2014 Food City 500 and Nationwide race. Fans can enter at
www.bristol.speedwaycharities.org. Tournaments will take place
March 15 at 2 p.m. and March 16 at 10 a.m. Championship round
will take place Sunday, March 17 at 10 a.m.

See the track your hero’s race on up close and personal. On
Sunday, March 17, from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., prior to the Food City
500, you will have the opportunity to tour the “World’s Fastest HalfMile”. See pit crews finish up last minute details and watch prerace rituals before the start of the race. Check out more information
at www.bristolmotorspeedway.com or call 423-989-6900. A
portion of the proceeds will benefit Speedway Children’s Charities.
Track Laps
Here is your chance to drive your own car around Bristol Motor
Speedway before the stars do! On Thursday, March 14, from 8:30
p.m. -10:30 p.m. you can take five laps around the “World’s Fastest
Half-Mile. More information at www.bristol.speedwaycharities.org.
Krispy Kreme
Who doesn’t love hot and
fresh doughnuts? Stop by
the Krispy Kreme trailer in
the corporate display lot on
Friday and Saturday of March
race weekend. All proceeds
go to Speedway Children’s
Charities.

34

Spring 2013

Online Auction

 Speed Channel Trackside Live Auction Package: Gathering
for you and five of your closest friends in the Speed Channel
Green Room to include meet and greet with Trackside live
hosts and guests! Guests to be announced week before
event. Speed goody bags and opportunity to be front and
center during the show. Behind-the-scenes tour of Speed
channel compound and your picture on the Trackside set
with your guests! This package also includes two tickets to
the Pit Road Party Zone located in the BMS infield. Watch
the race from behind Pit Road!

 Ride-of-a-Lifetime packages are going to be on the auction
block with Carl Edwards, Kevin Harvick & Tony Stewart
to name a few. Highest bidders will get to ride around the
World’s Fastest Half-Mile with their driver during driver
introductions for the Food City 500.
Additional auction packages will be announced in the coming
weeks on www.bristol.speedwaycharities.org.

2013 Food City 500

 Victory Lane Package: You and one guest will see the winner
of the Food City 500 up close and personal from Victory
Lane at Bristol Motor Speedway. Watch the last 50 laps from
Victory Lane and experience the winner and team right after
the race. You will also receive two tickets to the winner’s
toast promptly after.

Children’s Charities

March 2013 Events

 Bristol Motor Speedway All-Access Package: You and
a guest will receive the following: pre-race passes for the
Nationwide 300 and Food City 500, Cold pit passes for use
prior to Food City 500, passes for “The Roof at Turn 4” lounge
located on the roof of the media center inside the track. And
the icing on the cake will be the opportunity to park where
the BMS employees do. Pass will be valid Saturday and
Sunday of race weekend. Check back during the auction to
see what else we might add.

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

35

Thompson Metal Services

Partner Spotlight

A Special Connection...

BMS Partner Spotlight
“We feel a special connection with Bristol Motor Speedway and
NASCAR fans ... our customers and race fans are pretty much
one in the same, passionate hard working Americans that enjoy
honest competition.”
Thompson Metal Service, located in Kingsport, Tennessee,
specializes in recycling both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
Established in 1981 by Brad Thompson, TMSI has now become
the premier scrap metal recycler for East Tennessee under the
direction of Bradley Thompson, Vice President.

support of good employees that take pride in the company they
work for, great customer service would be next to impossible.”
“As for our vision for the future, we hope to continue to grow
when the business climate improves and have Thompson Metal
Services owned and operated by the upcoming generations of the
Thompson family.

Built on honesty and integrity, TMSI, which is Bristol Motor
Speedway’s preferred metal recycling partner, fulfills its commitment
to their customers and the community as it sets new standards in As for the relationship with Bristol Motor Speedway, Kerkoff says
the industry. They take pride in their service and being able to help it’s been a wonderful partnership, which has been extremely
beneficial to both parties.
customers obtain a higher value for their scrap materials.

“Partnering up with BMS is a great fit for us,” he said. “It allows
us to be in front of thousands of people, all of whom could all be
potential customers. Any one that is into racing or cars in general
can understand the need to recycle used parts, obsolete cars, etc.
Not only will it be recycled, but it is a way to generate some extra
cash flow. Recycling is the way of the future and it’s beneficial in
“Whether we are servicing our large volume customers or helping so many ways.”
our retail customers, we remain dedicated to quality customer
“We feel a special connection with Bristol Motor Speedway and
service.”
NASCAR fans in general, due to the fact that our customers are
TMSI vice-president Brad Thompson says TMSI’s core value are the heart of where NASCAR got its humble start. Thanks to “Big
Bill” France for realizing that Southern farmers and factory workers
simple but powerful.
preferred street-legal, family sedans over unrecognizable Indy-Style
“Hard work, honesty, good customer relations, and most “championship cars” or “roadsters.” Even today our customers
important a great relationship with our employees,” he said. “Yes, and race fans are pretty much one in the same, passionate hard
the customer relationship is highly important; however, without the working Americans that enjoy honest competition.”
“We operate under two simple philosophies,” said Dean Kerkhoff,
TMSI marketing manager. “One, we buy according to the Tennessee
scrap metal laws and two, we pay a fair price, we service on time,
and we pay on time. TMSI takes pride in being the area’s largest
recycler of stainless steel and high temperature alloys.

36

Spring 2013

Thompson metal Services

Partner Spotlight

A Special Connection...

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

37

Bristol Chamber

Bristol... A Good Place to Live

FEBRUARY

2013 Event Calendar

2
Symphony
of
the
Mountains:
CATCH
A
RISING
STAR
Paramount
Center
7:30
PM
Repertoire
will
include
Gioacchino
Rossini’s
“L’Italiana
in
Algeri:
Overture,
FEBRUARY
Mozart’s
“Piano
Concert
No.
27
2
Symphony
of
the
Mountains:
CATCH
A
RISING
STAR
Paramount
Center
16
Rhythm
of
the
Dance
Paramount
Center
7:30
PM
Repertoire
will
include
Gioacchino
Rossini’s
“L’Italiana
in
Algeri:
Overture,
An
inspiring
epic
reliving
the
journey
of
two
Celtic
clans
as
they
battle
their
way
to
freedom.

Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
he
street,
food
and
21
in
tBorder
Bash
fun
for
all.
FREE
Historic
Downtown
State
Street
7
Bash
Downtown
State
Street
activities,
6:00
PM
live
music,
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE
Historic
Block
Party
with
children’s
JULY
Border
Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE
Thursdays
in
July
-­‐
Concerts
&
Movies
in
the
Park
Cumberland
Sq.
Park
6:30
PM
JULY
21
Border
Bash
evening
under
the
stars
listening
to
Historic
State
&
Satreet
m
6:00
PM
Thursdays
iDn
owntown
July
Concerts
ovies
in
the
Park
Cumberland
Sq.
Park
Enjoy
a
summer
great
music
and
-­‐
w
atching
fM
amily
ovie.
4
Block
Party
w
ctivities,
live
fm
usic,
dancing
in
the
street,
fHistoric
ood
for
all.
FREE
Street
Enjoy
a
asnd
ummer
evening
under
the
stars
listening
Border
Bith
ash
children’s
(special
paerformance
or
Independence
Day)
Dfun
owntown
State
6:00
PM
to
great
music
and
watching
a
family
movie.
JULY
4
Bash
(special
erformance
for
I
ndependence
Day)
Historic
Downtown
State
Street
Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
tBorder
he
street,
food
and
fpun
for
all.
FREE
Thursdays
in
July
-­‐
Concerts
&
Movies
in
the
Park
Sq.
Pwark
6:30
PM
Cumberland
Block
Party
ith
children’s
activities,
music,
19
Border
Bash
Historic
Downtown
State
Street
live
6:00
PM
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE
Enjoy
a
summer
evening
under
the
stars
listening
to
great
m
usic
and
watching
a
family
19
Bash
movie.
Historic
Downtown
State
Street
Block
Party
with
pcerformance
hildren’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
tBorder
he
Dsowntown
treet,
food
and
un
for
ll.
FREE
4
Border
Bash
(special
for
Independence
Day)
Historic
State
Sftreet
a6:00
PM
Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE
Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE
19
Border
Bash
Historic
Downtown
State
Street
6:00
PM
Block
Party
with
children’s
activities,
live
music,
dancing
in
the
street,
food
and
fun
for
all.
FREE

38

Spring 2013

7:30
PM

7:30
PM
Time
TBA
7:00
PM

Time
TBA

7:00
PM

6:00
PM
6:00
PM

6:00
PM
6:00
PM

6:30
PM
6:00
PM
6:00
PM

Mission Complete
“It’s Bristol Baby!”

Mission Complete

Guest Welcome Village

Guest Welcome Village a MUST for Bristol Guests

By: Ben Trout
The best part of my job here at Bristol Motor Speedway is interacting
with fans like you. From well-seasoned Bristol race veterans to
newcomers making the trip to this special place in northeast
Tennessee for the first time, it’s always a treasure building relationships
and conversing with our guests.

Last August we introduced Bristol’s Guest Welcome Village and it was
a resounding success. The Guest Welcome Village returns in March,
and you’re invited! In fact, you’ll be doing yourself a disservice if you
don’t stop by for a visit.

Our all-new Guest Welcome Village is located near the Orange Bridge
Be it transporting guests on a golf cart, or talking with you in the between the Speedway and Dragway and includes an entertainment
Bruton Smith Building, it’s always fun finding out your hometowns, stage packed with music and a variety of NASCAR driver and
celebrity appearances.
what you’re most looking forward to, talking about your favorite
drivers and getting your take on the Bristol experience.
You’ll also find fan comfort areas, information kiosks, food and
But above all, these interactions provide us with an opportunity to beverage vendors and much more. Best of all, there’s no charge for
admission. It’s another way we can say “thank you” to the best fans
learn from you, and more importantly… Take action.
in NASCAR.
Case in point: Many of you, several on our Fan Advisory Board and
even some of our Bristol team members asked us about a common For more information on Bristol’s Guest Welcome Village, please visit
area for fans to assemble, experience entertainment, maybe see a bristolmotorspeedway.com/fans and click on Guest Services.
driver or two and be able to sit down and relax amid the hustle and
We can’t wait to shake your hand and welcome you home to Bristol!
bustle of a Bristol race weekend.

Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway

39

Speedway

PARKING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS GUESTS

2013 Advance Handicap permit application

Bristol Motor Speedway asks guests using
state-issued ADA placards to apply for a
Bristol-issued pass to help these visitors park
closer to their seats.
Anyone planning to use state-issued placards
should send copies of the permit and the
supporting documentation in advance,
along with an application form, so that the
BMS Events Department can send advance
passes for the appropriate parking lots. The
documentation required (registration card,
receipt, state-recognized disabilities ID
card, driver’s license, or original approved
application forms) is the same reviewed by
law enforcement officials at the entrances
to handicap lots. If a guest’s state does
not issue supporting documentation with a
permit, the guest should use a copy of the
same documentation used to obtain the
original permit.
Individuals with temporary disabilities should
submit medical documentation with an
application to receive the BMS-issued permit.
Space is limited in the South (B-side) Lot
closest to the Earnhardt, Yarborough,

Johnson and Petty grandstands and terraces,
and spaces in this lot will be allocated first
to guests with seats in these grandstands,
and second, on a first-apply, first-served
basis. In the South Lot, only 400 spaces are
available for Truck and Nationwide Series
events and 600 spaces are available for
Sprint Cup events. The number increases for
the Cup races because after the Nationwide
Series race, BMS opens Nationwide Series
competitor spaces for special needs requests.

a BMS-issued permit to another person
should be considered the same violation of
Tennessee law as fraudulently using a stateissued placard, and anyone doing so may face
the same penalties.

In the North (A-side) Lot, cars with BMS-issued
passes will park closer to the grandstand than
cars using state-issued placards.

Please note that these permit procedures do
not apply to reserved seat wheelchair guests.
Reserved wheelchair seating and parking
guests should contact Becky Fulwider at 423989-6931.

After applications have been received,
notification will be sent to the applicant
confirming or denying the request. Passes will
be mailed approximately one month before
the race.

State-issued placards will be admitted at the
Dragway Entrance only. Law enforcement
officials will check documentation to ensure
that the person to whom the permit is issued
is in the vehicle.

For all other handicap parking questions,
contact Alice Dawson at 423-989-6941 or
alice@bristolmotorspeedway.com.

Law enforcement officials will check the
permits at the South and Dragway Entrances
to ensure that the name on the BMS-issued
permit matches a photo ID of the occupant
of the vehicle using the permit. Transferring

If you applied for parking in 2012, you
must apply again for 2013 parking.

2013 Advance Special Needs Parking Permit Application
Deadline for application: Two Months Before Each Race or Once Annually
(User must have state-issued disabilities placard to apply for this permit)

Full Name___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(as it appears on documentation and photo ID)

Note: Seat Location and Ticket Account Number are required. Ticket holder and parking permit user may or may not be the same person. Parking
will be assigned by seat location.
Send this COMPLETED form, PLUS a photo copy of the state-issued permit, PLUS a copy of supporting documentation (registration card, receipt,
handicap ID card, driver’s license, or original approved application forms) to obtain or use the permit TO: ATT: Alice, BMS Events Dept., PO Box
3966, Bristol, TN, 37625. Retain a copy of completed application for your records.

Signature of permit user ____________________________________________________________________________
Downloadable applications are available at www.bristolmotorspeedway.com

IRWIN Impact Performance Series Screwdriving Bits: Built for Impact Drivers
While most screwdriving bits are simply compatible with impact drills and drivers, IRWIN ® Impact Performance Series™
fastener drive bits are engineered for impact tools. These forged bits fit fasteners precisely, so they won’t strip, and they’re
manufactured with heavy-duty, cold-forged, high-grade steel, so they’ll withstand extremely high torque output. Plus, a black
oxide finish resists corrosion, and a 1/4" quick-change shank fits all types of impact and rotary drivers. With three times longer
life than traditional insert bits, IRWIN’s Impact Performance Series screwdriving bits will stand up to the most rigorous use and
unforgiving jobsite conditions imaginable. When you need tools that work as hard as you do, IRWIN delivers.